Name: Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast sliced thin; 4 cups green cabbage chopped; 1 red bell pepper sliced; 3 cloves garlic minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 green onions sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

I still remember the first time I tossed chicken and cabbage into a sizzling wok on a busy weeknight. I wanted something fast, flavorful, and comforting without turning my kitchen into a mess. This Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry quickly became one of my go-to dinners because it delivers bold, savory flavor in every bite while keeping the ingredient list refreshingly simple.

What I love most is how the tender chicken soaks up the rich, garlicky sauce while the cabbage softens just enough to stay slightly crisp. With pops of red pepper, green onions, and sesame seeds on top, it’s a colorful, satisfying dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent at the same time.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when time is tight but you still crave a homemade meal. The combination of juicy chicken, lightly caramelized cabbage, and a savory stir fry sauce creates layers of flavor without complicated techniques.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a lower-carb option. Plus, it uses budget-friendly ingredients that are easy to find in almost any grocery store.

What Makes Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry So Flavorful?

The secret lies in the balance of savory soy sauce, aromatic garlic, a hint of sweetness, and the natural richness of seared chicken. When everything hits a hot pan, the ingredients cook quickly, locking in moisture while developing a slightly smoky depth that gives the dish its signature taste.

Fresh cabbage plays a bigger role than many people expect. As it softens, it absorbs the sauce beautifully while still offering a gentle crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken.

Options for Substitutions

If you don’t have chicken breast on hand, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully and add even more juiciness. For a vegetarian version, firm tofu or sliced mushrooms can easily replace the chicken while still soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Green cabbage is classic, but Napa cabbage or even shredded Brussels sprouts can be used for a slightly different texture. You can swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative, and adjust the heat by adding chili flakes or omitting them entirely.

Ingredients for this Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Chicken Breast
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean, tender, and cooks quickly, making it ideal for stir frying. It absorbs the sauce beautifully and provides the main source of protein in this dish.

Green Cabbage
Fresh green cabbage adds volume, texture, and a mild sweetness. As it cooks, it softens slightly while still keeping a pleasant bite that contrasts with the tender chicken.

Red Bell Pepper
This brings natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a subtle crunch. It balances the savory sauce and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.

Garlic
Freshly minced garlic is essential for that bold, aromatic base. It infuses the oil at the beginning of cooking and sets the foundation for the entire flavor profile.

Fresh Ginger
Ginger adds warmth and a gentle spice that gives the stir fry its authentic depth. It complements the garlic and brightens the savory sauce.

Soy Sauce
The backbone of the sauce. Soy sauce provides saltiness, umami richness, and that classic stir fry flavor.

Oyster Sauce
This thick, savory sauce enhances the umami element and adds a slightly sweet, complex depth that elevates the overall taste.

Sesame Oil
Used at the end of cooking, sesame oil adds a nutty aroma that makes the dish smell irresistible.

Cornstarch
A small amount helps thicken the sauce and lightly coats the chicken, giving it a silky texture and helping it brown nicely.

Chicken Broth or Water
This helps create enough sauce to coat all the ingredients evenly without making the dish dry.

Green Onions
Sliced green onions add freshness and a mild sharpness as a finishing touch.

Sesame Seeds
Sprinkled on top for subtle crunch and a hint of nutty flavor.

Cooking Oil
A neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil is best for high-heat stir frying.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Slice the chicken breast into thin, bite-sized strips. Cutting against the grain ensures the chicken stays tender after cooking. Place the chicken in a bowl and toss it with cornstarch and a small splash of soy sauce. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Chop the cabbage into medium-sized pieces, slice the red bell pepper into thin strips, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and slice the green onions. Having everything ready before cooking is crucial because stir frying happens quickly.

Step 2: Make the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, a small amount of chicken broth or water, and a few drops of sesame oil. Taste and adjust if needed—add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce or a dash of chili flakes for heat. Set the sauce aside near the stove.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high to high heat. Add cooking oil and swirl to coat the surface evenly. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the marinated chicken in a single layer.

Let it cook undisturbed for about 1–2 minutes to develop a light golden sear. Stir and continue cooking until the chicken is mostly cooked through but still slightly tender inside. Remove it from the pan and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Cook the Aromatics

In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir constantly for about 20–30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.

Step 5: Stir Fry the Vegetables

Add the cabbage and red bell pepper to the pan. Stir fry over high heat, tossing frequently so the vegetables cook evenly. Allow the cabbage to wilt slightly while maintaining some crispness. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes.

If the pan looks dry, add a small splash of chicken broth to help steam the cabbage slightly without making it soggy.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared stir fry sauce evenly over the mixture. Toss everything together so the sauce coats every piece.

Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken and cabbage. The cornstarch will activate and create a glossy finish.

Step 7: Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat and drizzle a little extra sesame oil for aroma. Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top.

Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor. Stir fry dishes are always at their peak right after cooking.

How Long to Prepare Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Preparing Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is surprisingly quick, which is one of the reasons I rely on it so often. From slicing the chicken to chopping the vegetables and mixing the sauce, the prep work typically takes about 15–20 minutes. If you buy pre-shredded cabbage or slice your vegetables ahead of time, you can reduce the prep time even further.

The actual cooking process moves fast because stir frying uses high heat. Once the pan is hot, the chicken cooks in about 5–7 minutes, and the vegetables need another 4–5 minutes. Altogether, you can have this dish on the table in roughly 25–30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Tips for Perfect Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Use high heat to achieve that signature stir fry texture. A properly heated wok or skillet helps sear the chicken quickly and keeps the vegetables crisp rather than soggy.

Slice the chicken evenly and against the grain so it stays tender. Thin, uniform pieces cook at the same rate and absorb the sauce more effectively.

Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cooking in batches if necessary prevents steaming and allows the ingredients to brown properly.

Keep the ingredients moving once they hit the pan. Stir frying is a fast process, and consistent tossing ensures even cooking.

Add sesame oil at the end rather than the beginning to preserve its rich, nutty aroma.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One common mistake is overcooking the cabbage. It should be tender with a slight crunch, not limp and watery.

Another issue is adding too much sauce at once. Excess liquid can cause the vegetables to steam instead of stir fry, affecting texture and flavor concentration.

Cooking on low heat is another frequent problem. Without high heat, you won’t get the slight caramelization that gives the dish depth.

Skipping the cornstarch step can result in a thin, watery sauce that doesn’t cling to the ingredients.

Finally, forgetting to prep everything beforehand can lead to rushed cooking and uneven results since stir frying happens quickly.

What to Serve With Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The soft, fragrant rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully and balances the bold flavors of the stir fry.

Fried Rice

For a heartier meal, pair it with vegetable or egg fried rice to complement the textures and add extra flavor layers.

Lo Mein Noodles

Tender noodles tossed lightly in soy sauce create a satisfying base that pairs wonderfully with the saucy chicken and cabbage.

Cauliflower Rice

A lighter, low-carb option that still soaks up the delicious sauce without overpowering the dish.

Simple Asian Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp cucumbers with rice vinegar dressing provide refreshing contrast to the warm stir fry.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, allow the Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry to cool completely before storing. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and food safety.

In the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to restore texture. Add a small splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving works as well, though the vegetables may soften slightly more.

For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that cabbage may become softer after freezing, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (approximate values based on standard ingredients):

Calories: 320–380 kcal
Protein: 30–35g
Carbohydrates: 15–20g
Fat: 15–18g
Fiber: 3–5g
Sodium: Varies depending on soy sauce used

These values can vary depending on portion size and ingredient substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It reheats well, though the cabbage will soften slightly over time.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are juicier and add more richness to the dish while maintaining tenderness.

Is this dish spicy?

It is not naturally spicy, but you can easily add chili flakes, fresh sliced chilies, or chili paste to increase the heat level.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.

What vegetables can I add to customize it?

Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or baby corn all work beautifully and add extra color and nutrients.

Conclusion

Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is the kind of dependable meal that fits effortlessly into any weeknight routine. It’s quick, flavorful, and adaptable, making it suitable for everything from family dinners to simple meal prep. With tender chicken, crisp-tender cabbage, and a savory sauce that ties everything together, this dish proves that a homemade stir fry can be both easy and incredibly satisfying.